LEAD

Janosch Prinz (FASoS)

We need solidarity and strategic vision to deal with the current uncertainties in Dutch Higher Education. I will draw on my experience as WOinActie organizer and my knowledge of the many parts of our institution to fight for policy that gives the whole UM community a sustainable future.

As a political philosopher working on the threats posed to democracy by concentrated wealth, I care deeply about maintaining publicly funded and academically free universities. Let's push for UM to lead by example in bolstering democracy: as an accountable, inclusive, and sustainable institution that trusts in the voice of its constituency!

Donna Yates (Law)

I'm an Associate Professor of Criminology and a sitting member of the University Council. I'm a devoted counsellor, a kind colleague, and a non-EEU member of the UM and Maastricht community. On the council I've worked hard on issues affecting Early Career academics, researchers, international staff, and colleagues who are carers/parents.

I believe in the international character of our university. As we face unprecedented budget cuts that threaten to alter the very fabric of our community, a vote for me is a vote for building, not tearing apart, despite the challenges to come. My door is always open, I'll listen.

Anique de Bruin

As a professor in educational psychology at the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, I strive for an academic environment that is transformative for students and provides a forward-moving workplace. I believe in a university that listens, cares, and evolves; especially in these challenging times. I commit to contributing to this mission in the university council. As a Maastricht local, I advocate for internationalization and Euregional connection. Transparency and accountability must guide every decision. I will advocate for sustainable funding models that ensure our university’s long-term success and reduce the impact of budget cuts on employees.

Jeroen Moes (FSE)

Higher education is under pressure: politically, financially, and ethically. At UM, we must defend what matters: small-scale teaching, integrity, accessibility, and an international academic community built on trust.

As Chair of the University Council's Research & Education Committee and former Chair of the FSE Faculty Council, I’ve helped shape vague policy into concrete action; on GenAI, digitalization, and disability support. My experience with neurodivergence deepens my commitment to inclusion that’s real, not rhetorical.

I bring years of experience in representation, but more importantly, I bring care, clarity, and collaboration.

If you believe in a principled university, I’d be honored to have your vote.

Katlijn Haesebrouck (SBE)

I am an Associate Professor in Management Accounting whose research examines leadership and trust in organizations. Two years ago, I served on the University Council’s Operations Committee, focusing on budgeting, sustainable investments, and staff well-being issues like work pressure and disability support.

I chaired the Maastricht Young Academy and now serve on the Elinor Ostrom Fund board at SBE. Through my research and these roles, I have seen how important transparent, evidence-based decision-making and cross-faculty collaboration are. If elected, I will promote fair budgeting, a supportive workplace, and a sustainable campus that reflects our university’s values, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.

Bram Fleuren (FPN)

As Assistant Professor, I study sustainable employability to realize work without harm to well-being and health. Working as researcher, lecturer, or in supporting roles should be meaningful and be recognized and rewarded, while offering room for other life activities.

As member of the Maastricht Young Academy and FPN-EPC, I also focus on workload reduction and interpersonal safety. There, I use my experience as former F-council- and task force Sustainable Employability member, PhD-representative, and interfaculty PhD-candidate (FHML, SBE, FPN).

In short, I stand for research-based policy on meaningful, fair, and healthy work for all university personnel.

Linda Rieswijk (FSE)

As a Lecturer Level 3, I understand the challenges of building an academic career after three postdocs—including one at UC Berkeley. I chose teaching and will advocate for fair career opportunities, transparent promotion, and social safety for all staff. Budget cuts shouldn’t hurt those at the bottom while others earn excessive salaries.

With a background in data science, bioinformatics, and environmental health sciences, I work at DACS and FSE Central Office (UTQ) and promote science communication and outreach as city coordinator for Pint of Science Maastricht and a lecturer for KidzCollege. Let’s make Maastricht University more inclusive and engaged!

Silvia Bolognin (FHML)

I am a neurobiologist studying age-associated brain disorders at MERLN Institute (FHML). After working in different European countries and overseas, I have recently established my research group at Maastricht University. Because of this experience, I truly believe in the values and positive impacts of an international and multicultural environment. My motivation to join the Council as a LEAD candidate is to support an inclusive community, especially now, when its value risks being overlooked. 

Michael Capalbo (FPN)

I see the university as more than an institution—I believe in a Humboldtian ideal: a living community where research and education lead to synergy, both within individuals and across the university. With experience as a researcher, teacher, and manager in neuroscience, computer science, and educational psychology, I understand the challenges we face from multiple angles. I have served in participatory bodies as a student, employee, and chair. I believe a council should be a sharp, critical friend to the board—representing the voices of staff with clarity and conviction, guarding a community where knowledge leads, but people are never left behind.